A Rye child-care worker at the Rye YMCA was arraigned Friday after prosecutors said she lifted and slammed a 19-month-old toddler to the floor earlier this month. The worker, identified in court as 34-year-old Molly Swain, faces a charge of endangering the welfare of a child and was released on her own recognizance following the hearing.
As reported by Daily Voice, the alleged incident occurred on April 1 in Rye, where prosecutors say Swain lifted the toddler by the arms and dropped the child "to the floor with force." Prosecutors also say Swain grabbed the same toddler by the back of the shirt collar on two other occasions. The arraignment took place April 24 in Rye City Court, and the case was adjourned to May 5.
Westchester County District Attorney Susan Cacace, quoted by Daily Voice, said "the defendant is alleged to have betrayed her duty as a care worker." Prosecutors say a temporary order of protection was issued for the child and that the office will pursue the matter in Rye City Court.
Investigation and prosecution
The City of Rye Police Department and the New York State Office of Children and Family Services assisted in the investigation, according to coverage mirrored by AOL. The Westchester County District Attorney’s Office assigned the case to Rye Branch Chief Cindy Adimari, who is listed as the Rye branch chief in policereform.ny.gov. Prosecutors said Swain was released on her own recognizance pending the next court date.
What the charge means
Swain is charged with endangering the welfare of a child, an offense defined in New York Penal Law § 260.10 as described by Justia and classified as a class A misdemeanor. Under state law a conviction on that count can carry up to one year in jail and other penalties, though outcomes depend on the facts and the court’s eventual findings.
How investigations and complaints work
The New York State Office of Children and Family Services oversees licensing and complaint investigations for day-care programs and maintains a toll-free child-care complaint line. State guidance says inspectors can respond within 24 hours if children are in immediate danger. For complaints about licensed providers call 1-800-732-5207 and suspected abuse should be reported to the Statewide Central Register at 1-800-342-3720, per New York State. Parents with concerns can also contact local police to request welfare checks.
The next court appearance in Rye City Court is set for May 5, and Swain remains free on her own recognizance until then. For background on the DA’s office and public contact information, see the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office.
